A General Dentist’s Guide to Dental Fillings
Your general dentist can perform a dental filling treatment on a tooth with mild to moderate decay. The process involves elements that the dentist must follow. The goal is to provide you with a new smile. Here is a provider’s guide to getting a lasting dental filling.
A cavity needs a dental filling
Clinical studies show that sensitivity develops when a cavity worsens. The decay could become deep enough to reach the innermost layers of the tooth. Infection and inflammation develop from the bacterial invasion. The general dentist must remove the decayed areas during the cavity’s early stages. Applying a dental filling to the treated cavity will prevent dental decay from progressing.
Dental filling placement
The tooth and its surrounding area may need numbing before the treatment. The general dentist will choose the right filling material based on the cavity’s location and the damage’s extent. Grinding the decayed areas will follow once the local anesthetic takes effect. Cleaning and disinfecting the area will remove any trace of decay and bacteria. Applying the dental filling will seal the tooth and prevent more cavities from forming.
Types of filling material
A dental filling can be made of metal or non-metal material. The general dentist will assess the tooth’s location and the patient’s preference. Many choices are available. The provider may suggest any of the following:
- Gold fillings are lasting and durable. These restorations can stay in place for at least 20 years. Some dentists prefer these fillings because of their biocompatibility and wear resistance.
- Amalgam fillings are durable and strong. The dark color makes the material suitable for the back teeth. It is made up of copper, tin, silver, and mercury.
- Ceramic fillings are ideal for visible teeth. These restorations are often made of porcelain, which is stain-resistant and matches the appearance of natural teeth.
- Composite fillings also match the natural color of teeth. These restorations are made from glass particles and plastic. The general dentist will use these fillings for visible teeth.
Pain and getting a dental filling
The process of getting this restoration is pain-free. Injecting the area with a local anesthetic will numb it. After the treatment, the anesthetic will fade. The patient will experience a little discomfort. The duration and intensity of the pain will depend on the location, filling size, and the patient’s pain tolerance.
In most cases, pain after the dental filling treatment will go away after days or weeks. Seeing the general dentist is necessary if the pain worsens or lingers. The provider will check if the filling is placed correctly or if infection is developing. Avoiding sweet, spicy, cold, and hot foods or drinks can help prevent more pain.
A dental filling treatment can improve your health
Your general dentist can improve your oral health and appearance by providing a dental filling. The process is an easy one. Understanding it can help you prepare for the treatment and recovery. Work with your general dentist to maintain a stunning and healthy smile.
Request an appointment or call M.Y. Dental Spa at 212-786-5757 for an appointment in our New York office.
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